China Telecom chases 4G parity with China Mobile

China Telecom (CHA.NYSE, 0728.HKG) saw its user base shrink by 5.34 million mobile subscribers in the first half and aims to step up its 4G push, South China Morning Post reported, citing a senior research analyst. Rival SOE China Mobile launched 4G voice call and data services soon after it was granted a licence at the end of 2013. Senior research analyst Heyman Chiu of Cinda International said that with the launch of 4G handset service, China Telecom would strengthen its position and stem the loss of subscribers in the second half. China Telecom earlier announced capital expenditure of RMB80.3 billion (US$13.07 billion) for this year, half of which would be spent on 4G-related construction.